Propagation: Germination of Aquilegia Seeds, 1 by Weezingreens

Weezingreens wrote:
It's funny that I am less impressed with the A. formosa because it is practically a weed around here. It pops up all over the yard and beds, and though it usually is in an awkward spot, by the time I get around to weeding, it's already blooming and I relent.

The A. flabellata are a favorite of mine, as well. They bloom considerably earlier than the other columbine. I sell quite a few when they are blooming... white, pink and blue. They put out lots of good seed, so I'm sure you've had lots of volunteers.

Since I have a little nursery business, I'm so busy all spring that I no longer have time to dig around in my flower beds until July or August. One of the nicer results is that I don't disturb those young volunteers that pop up. Of course, the columbine, like violas, cross pollinate and nice surprises result. Sometimes Mother Nature knows best.

My oldest columbine are McKana's Giant. When in flower, they are easily 5 feet tall, and the long spurred blooms are beautiful. I have three of them in my south bed and they are all over 15 years old.